Potamitis Dive Spot: Cliff Jumping in Zakynthos

Searching for the best place in Zakynthos for cliff jumping? Don’t miss the Potamitis Dive Spot, an unmissable hidden gem on the island!

Zakynthos (also known as Zante) is not in short supply when it comes to beautiful beaches. From charming sandy coves to sprawling stretches of coastline, it’s certainly easy to choose the ideal spot for a laidback beach day.

However, for those that are looking for a bit more excitement, the Potamitis Dive Spot is a hidden gem on the island of Zante and is undoubtedly the best location for cliff jumping. 

Aside from the ideal ledges to jump from, the Potamitis Dive Spot is equally rich in breathtaking views. Make sure you do not forget your goggles either! After diving into the water, visitors can explore nearby caves with some of the best snorkelling in Zakynthos.

Essentially, this spot is for those looking to have some serious fun. To top it all of, it’s unspoiled and not a popular tourist destination.

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Where is the Potamitis Dive Spot?

You’ll find the Potamitis Dive Spot on Zakynthos, an island in the Ionian Sea and part of the Greek Ionian Island cluster. The Potamitis Dive Spot is located on the very top peninsula of Zakynthos island. In fact, Cape Skinari is Zante island’s northernmost point and is only 1 km north of the dive spot.

Potamitis is situated in a secluded part of an already remote area, with only vacation rentals and holiday homes surrounding it. The closest gas station or grocery store can be found in the town near Agios Nikolaos Beach, about 10 minutes south of Potamitis.

The exact location of the dive spot can be found beneath the Potamitis Windmill, which operates as a holiday rental and restaurant. 

How to Get to the Potamitis Dive Spot

If you choose to arrive by land to the Potamitis Dive Spot, you’ll likely want to know how to access the actual area for cliff jumping and swimming. Near the entrance of the restaurant (Potamitis Windmill), you’ll begin your descend down about 250 steps. It’s important to be mindful of the hefty set of stairs for accessibility reasons and the fact that you’ll have to climb back up when you leave. There is no other way to reach the dive spot unless you’re arriving by sea.

By Bus

Zante does offer public transportation and is an affordable way to see many major attractions on the island including the Navagio Shipwreck. Unfortunately, Zante’s bus system (KTEL) does not reach the faraway neighbourhoods beyond Volimes or Alykes.

Both of these two stops would be the farthest north you can get to by bus. From there, you could catch a taxi to reach the final destination of Potamitis. Summer bus schedules with KTEL can be found here.

Driving

Exploring the north end of Zakynthos is almost impossible without a car, scooter or any form of your own transportation. Although the distance is a mere 30 km (18 miles), the journey by car from Zakynthos town to Potamitis will take about one hour. Of course, there are worse commutes to complain about and the drive along the coast is nothing short of marvellous. 

For navigation purposes, you’ll want to head towards Potamitis Windmill which is a right turn off the main road and after the restaurant Taverna Faros.

If you’re not planning on visiting the actual restaurant or bar, try to park further back so you do not take up spots for patrons. It’s important to be mindful of any “no parking” signs as the site additionally functions as a hotel. The parking area is large and located near the windmill here.

By Boat

The closest boat tour departs from here and is operated by Potamitisbros Boat Trips. These “glass bottom boat” tours are usually focused around seeing the nearby Blue Caves but will also stop at the dive spot.

From the port of Agios Nikolaos Beach, you can easily find boat rentals for self guided boat excursions. It’s also possible to charter a boat with a captain included.

Alternatively, larger and more inclusive tours also depart from Planos, further down south. These group tours will usually take an entire day and stop at multiple sites along the coast.

Practical Info for Visiting the Potamitis Dive Spot

Is the Potamitis Dive Spot free to visit?

It’s a bit of a grey area but in general, yes, it’s free to visit. From our own personal experience, we entered for free and were not asked for money by anyone. However, we’ve heard other stories about potentially running into someone monitoring the top of the stairs and collecting money as an entrance fee.

If it’s €1 or €2, then our advice is to not fight it but this is of course up to your own discretion. The only reason we would be adamant about not paying a small admission price is if the person collecting the money was in no way associated with the restaurant who owns the windmills. 

⛱ Read More: Top Beaches and Hidden Gems in Zakynthos!

Are there facilities at the Potamitis Dive Spot?

Directly at the dive spot and entrance to the sea, there are zero facilities. If you need to use the bathroom, purchase drinks or food, you can do so at the restaurant above. 

Is the Potamitis Dive Spot suitable for kids?

We happened to visit Potamitis with our baby who was eight months old at the time. At that age, she was very portable and the visit was manageable even if she herself did not go into the water. For toddlers and other children under 6-8 years old, it’s certainly not the safest place.

There are railings along the cliff for added protection but still many possibilities for accidents. If you do visit Potamitis Dive Spot with older kids, it’s crucial they’re adequate swimmers.

Given the lengthy journey along the stairs, it’s also worth remembering that hauling a stroller up and down will not be enjoyable.

Is there anywhere to sit at the Potamitis Dive Spot?

There are a handful of concrete terraces throughout the massive stairway which also provide shade. A good amount of sun loungers are also available, which seemed to be free during our time of visit as nobody was monitoring the swimming area.

If you do not use one of the restaurant’s loungers, you can still lay out on your own towel. Comparatively, there isn’t an abundant amount of room for laying out in the sun as there would be on a traditional beach. The focus at Potamitis is more on the activities – cliff jumping and snorkeling!

Is jumping off a cliff the only way to access the sea?

Even though jumping off the ledges is the most fun way to enter the sea, it’s not the only option. There is a metal ladder attached to the rocks at the very bottom of the stairs. The ladder is used to get out of the sea after jumping in but can equally be used to enter.

Other Attractions Near the Potamitis Dive Spot

Blue Caves

One of the most popular sites on Zakynthos island are the Blue Caves located on Cape Skinari. The caves are comprised of natural and evolutionary formations which are only accessible by boat. The sequence of impressive arches is flooded with iconic turquoise waters, hence why they’re simply called the Blue Caves.

Skinari Lighthouse

As the most northern landmark, Skinari Lighthouse typically sits unvisited by many tourists. This makes it one of the most calm, peaceful and scenic places to experience in Zante. Skinari Lighthouse was built in the 1800s and is a great stop for hikers if you combine it with a trek to the cliffside path above the Blue Caves.

Makris Gialos Beach

As one of the most notable beaches of northern Zante, it’s unquestionably worth visiting if you’re in the area. The beach is easily accessible and great for children with its sandy and shallow entrance. Explore the nearby caves at Makris Gialos Beach offers small caves to be explored, crystal clear waters and a picturesque setting.

Xigia Sulfur Beach

Most visitors who do flock to the northern tip of Zante are headed here, the famous sulfur beach. Known as a natural spa with healing benefits, the beach’s sulphur characteristic sets it apart from other beautiful beaches on Zakynthos. Despite the unmistakable smell, Xigia continues to draw a lot of tourists in which means it’s not a place you’ll have to yourself. 

Where to Stay in Northern Zakynthos

🛌 5-bedrooms, sea view, outdoor pool: Villa Melite
Very Good 8.5 · 40+ reviews

🛌 Infinity pool, luxury home and decor: Nikolakos Villa
Exceptional 9.7

🛌 Top rated location, close to beach and rooms with balconies: Zante Nest Studios & Apartments
Excellent 8.8 · 300+ reviews

More Greek Travel Posts:

• How to Get to Kythira

• How to Get to Zakynthos Island

• Best Areas to Stay on Kythira

• Most Beautiful Beaches in Kythira

Zakynthos Travel Resources

☔️ TRAVEL INSURANCE: EKTA or VisitorsCoverage

✈️ FLIGHTS: Skyscanner, CheapOair or Kiwi.com

🚙 CAR RENTALS: Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com

🚊 TRAINS & BUSES: Busbud, Trainline or Omio

🛳 FERRIES: Direct Ferries

🛌 ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com, Agoda or Trivago

☎️ ESIM / CELL PHONE DATA: Airalo

📸 TOURS & ACTIVITIES: GetYourGuide or Viator

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